Importing Classic Cars into the US

Bringing Your Dream Classic Car to the USA

For many car enthusiasts, owning a piece of automotive history is a dream come true. Whether it’s a 1967 Ford Mustang, a Jaguar E-Type, or a vintage Porsche, these vehicles hold timeless value. However, getting a classic car to USA from another country requires careful planning. It’s essential to ensure compliance with federal regulations, secure reliable transportation, and protect your investment throughout the process.

Unlike modern vehicles, vintage cars often have different manufacturing standards that may not align with U.S. requirements. The process involves more than just shipping—it requires an understanding of emissions standards, safety regulations, and import duties. The good news? With the right assistance, you can successfully bring your prized classic car to USA without unnecessary delays or unexpected costs.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we specialize in classic car shipping, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and legally. Whether you're a collector, dealer, or an individual looking to bring home a unique automobile, we make the process hassle-free.

Terms to Import Classic Cars into the US

According to law, automobiles older than 25 do not have importation restrictions. Those younger must be assessed as importation eligible before being transported into the country by an auto shipping company.

Antique and classic automobiles are not subject to DOT (Department of Transportation) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) safety and pollution requirements. Any vehicle older than 21 doesn’t need to comply with EPA requirements when entering the country. Such automobiles need not comply with FMVSS (federal motor vehicle safety standards) either. It should be noted on the HS 7 form under box 1 for you to give it to customs when importing classic cars into the US. You can find this form at https://www.nhtsa.gov/onenhtsa.

The 25-year period starts with the day your automobile was manufactured. Suppose this is not present as a label permanently fixed to your car by the manufacturer. In that case, you can confirm the age of your automobile to customs with the available paperwork, like an invoice containing the date on which your car was sold for the first time or a document stating your motorcar was registered more than 25 years ago.

In the absence of such documents, you may be able to procure a statement from a historical automobile society confirming the age of your vehicle.

Upon entry, the automobile transport company must file a 3520-1 EPA form (with an attachment containing a title copy and other necessary documents) with CBP. CBP can temporarily remove this condition for citizens of different countries traveling to the United States in Canadian or Mexican-registered automobiles who do not intend to sell the car. You can obtain this form by contacting the EPA at 734-214-4100.

Please note the following:

• If your vehicle is subject to DOT requirements due to it being over 25 years old (you can confirm this with the same documents used for the EPA), the one importing classic cars into the US should verify the HS-7 block stating the motorcar does not have to meet DOT requirements to enter the country.
• If the automobile is young enough for DOT requirements to apply to it, you will have to bring proof that it complies with the department’s safety regulations. You can use the sticker on the driver’s door stating the vehicle was built according to United States Standards or a letter from the manufacturer confirming it meets DOT requirements.
• If you cannot prove your automobile respects DOT requirements, you must import it through an RI (registered importer). To import antique or classic cars, you have to pay a duty rate of 2.5%, based on the vehicle’s worth when importing it. If you can provide a valid proof of your vehicle’s Canadian origin, you may be exempt from paying duty.

Key Steps to Importing a Classic Car to USA

1. Determine If Your Vehicle Qualifies for Import

A vehicle is considered a classic or vintage car if it is at least 25 years old. If your car meets this age requirement, it may qualify for import under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) exemptions. This means it may not need modifications to meet current safety and emissions regulations.

However, if your vehicle is under 25 years old, it must comply with strict safety and environmental standards before being legally imported. This could require modifications, which can be costly and time-consuming.

2. Understanding Import Laws and Regulations

When importing a classic car to USA, several key regulations apply:

• EPA Exemptions: Classic cars older than 25 years are exempt from certain emissions regulations.
• DOT Regulations: Older vehicles do not need to comply with modern safety standards such as airbags or crash testing requirements.
• Customs Clearance: Your vehicle must go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), where import duties and taxes will be assessed.
• Title and Registration: After import, you must register the car with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which may require additional inspections.

3. Calculate Import Costs and Duties

Importing a vintage car comes with specific costs, including:

• Import Duties: Generally, the duty rate for cars is 2.5% of the vehicle’s purchase price. However, some vehicles may qualify for exemptions.
• Shipping Fees: Costs vary depending on the shipping method, distance, and the type of vehicle.
• Customs Broker Fees: While not mandatory, using a professional service can help streamline paperwork and avoid costly mistakes.
• Storage and Port Fees: If your vehicle arrives but isn’t picked up immediately, additional charges may apply.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method for Classic Car Shipping

Selecting the best transport option is crucial when bringing a classic car to USA. Depending on the car’s value, condition, and origin, you may choose one of the following shipping methods:

RoRo vs. Container Shipping

If you pick RoRo shipping, your vehicle will be driven to the ship’s deck, where it will be safely strapped down during the duration of the trip. This method of shipping your vehicle overseas is less costly due to the possible risks perceived. Some vehicle owners believe their cars will get damaged due to exposure to weather and the sea environment. However, these worries are mostly unfounded as the vehicles are securely tied below deck with protective covers to protect them from the elements.

RoRo transportation permits the client to pick fixed arrival and departure dates. Regardless of whether you or your auto shipping company will be bringing the classic vehicle, it has to arrive at a specific, agreed-upon time and date.

On the other hand, importing classic cars into the US using a sealed container decreases the risk of damage but is also more expensive. Since the container’s contents are hidden from all those involved in the conveyance, theft chances are also much lower.

If you’re importing classic cars into the US, you may choose between using an exclusive container for each one or shared container transport. Unlike RoRo transport, you may also ship spare tires and parts along with your vehicle, but arrival and departure dates may change due to circumstances.

We Ensure Safe Transport for Your Classic Car

Your classic car shipping experience should be as secure as possible. A-1 Auto Transport provides:

• Fully insured shipments to protect against unexpected damages.
• White-glove handling for delicate, high-value vehicles.
• Secure loading and unloading procedures to prevent scratches, dents, or mechanical issues.
• Tracking services so you can monitor your vehicle’s journey.

Additionally, before shipping, you should:

• Document the car’s condition with photos and written records.
• Remove all personal belongings to comply with customs regulations.
• Ensure proper cleaning to avoid quarantine issues if required.

Why Choose A-1 Auto Transport?

At A-1 Auto Transport, we know how important your vintage car is to you. Our team has decades of experience in classic car shipping, ensuring every vehicle arrives timely, safely and legally in the United States. Here’s how we can help:

• Expert Guidance: We handle all paperwork, customs documentation, and compliance requirements.
• Variety of Shipping Options: Choose the best transport method based on your budget and vehicle type.
• Reliable Customer Support: We keep you updated throughout the shipping process.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive coverage to give you peace of mind.
• Competitive Pricing: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Import Your Vintage Car to USA Now

Importing a classic car to USA doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With A-1 Auto Transport, you get a team that understands the unique requirements of transporting vintage cars and ensures a smooth experience from start to finish.

If you're ready to import your dream car, contact A-1 Auto Transport today at 1-888-230-9116 and let us handle every detail for you!